sohmc writes: Some time ago, Google admitted that the biggest threat was not other search engines but services like Siri. However, Google just bridged that gap with Google Voice Search, already available in Jelly Bean, but also available via downloadable app. Google also submitted this app to the iOS App Store and is currently waiting approval. However, Slashdotters are no doubt recalling to mind the "Google Voice" fiasco, in which Apple refused to allow it to appear, saying that it replaces a native function. It wasn't until Apple was brought before Congress to answer questions on how it approves or rejects apps that Google Voice was brought in.

sohmc writes: I recently ordered a new phone from AT&T. While most people (including myself) just quickly click "I agree!", I decided to actually print out the 26-page contract and actually read it. While you can read the rest in my journal, I did want to point out the one thing that surprised me the most:

* AT&T states that "e-mail attachments can not be sent, downloaded, read, or forwarded on the mobile device" (pg. 21)

I plan to call AT&T about this and ask them for clarification, but fear that they might terminate me for being "unreasonable".

sohmc writes: Michael Doyle claims that he invented the first internet. It was designed to allow doctors to view embryos on a browser window. If the name sounds familiar, it's because back in 1999, his company Eolassuccessfullysued Microsoft for violating the same patent. Microsoft appealed, but eventually settled. Tim Berners-Lee — father of the early web — is scheduled to testify. As someone who denounces software patents in general, I wonder why Google, et al, would even ask him to testify. Many of these companies (think Amazon's 1-click patent) have used patent laws to their advantage. It will be interesting to see what shakes out.

sohmc writes: It looks like the massive exodus has finally lit a fire under GoDaddy's collective butts. PCMag is reporting that GoDaddy is now officially opposing SOPA and it's sister bill IP PROTECT. In a statement, CEO Warren Adelman said, "GoDaddy opposes SOPA because the legislation has not fulfilled its basic requirement to build a consensus among stake-holders in the technology and Internet communities." There is so much spin on their official press release that you could power a small city.